Generality
The term ichthyol generally refers to a particular compound with a dense consistency and rich in sulfur, which corresponds to the ammonium salt of sulphohycolic acid (ammonium sulphichthyolate). Often, this salt is also called "ictammolo".
Medicinal Itiol tube. Image from wikipedia.org
Ichthyol is obtained through the dry distillation of bituminous shales (particular types of sedimentary rocks), containing residues of fish and fossil marine animals.
This compound is attributed with keratoplastic, antiseptic, antiseborrheic, resolving, anti-inflammatory and decongestant properties.
Ichthyol-based preparations are available for both human and veterinary use.
